If the war in Ukraine escalates the Ministry of Defence (MoD) could delay vacating the Ripon Barracks site for housing to be built, according to the leader of Ripon City Council.

For several years, government housing agency Homes England and the MoD have been developing plans to build 1,300 homes at Ripon Barracks, which has been used by the military since World War 1.

The scheme is called Clotherholme and also includes a new primary school, sports pitches, retail, food and drink units and a 60-bed care home.

The site consists of Deverell Barracks to the east, Claro Barracks to the west and Laver Banks to the south.

Deverell Barracks has already been vacated however Claro Barracks is still operational and in use by the Royal Engineers.

Previously, the MoD has said it would close the site in 2019 and 2023.

A computer generated image of how Chatham Road and Napier Street in Ripon would look under the plans.

Earlier this month, Conservative MP Julian Smith published a letter he received from defence minister Alex Chalk that said Claro Barracks will remain in use until late 2026.

Although the letter said that phased work would begin at Deverell Barracks once planning permission has been granted.

‘A changing world’

At a meeting of Ripon City Council this week, council leader Andrew Williams, who is also an independent councillor on North Yorkshire County Council, said the 2026 date is “optimistic” due to a changing geopolitical situation.

Cllr Williams said:

“In a changing world since these proposals were first put on table, the world is clearly a more unstable place than when this process started several years ago. 

“There is a real risk of proper armed conflict escalating in Europe in a way that several years ago could have seen to be a farcical and ludicrous proposition.

“I suspect the MoD will need to retain part of its estate than it envisaged doing several years ago. As a consequence there may still be a need for a barracks in Ripon well beyond 2026.”

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said:

“We remain committed to the disposal of Claro Barracks.

“With the adjacent Deverell Barracks now vacated, it is ready for the planned and phased redevelopment of the combined barracks site at Ripon.”

Read more:

• NHS objects to planned 1,300-home development on Ripon barracks
• Calls to assess impact of Ripon Cathedral’s £6m expansion on cafes and shops
• 1,300-home Ripon housing scheme set to be approved

Councillors will meet next Thursday afternoon in Harrogate to make a decision on whether the Ripon Barracks scheme goes ahead.

The plans have been recommended for approval by HBC case officer Andy Hough in a report.

The meeting will begin at 2pm on February 23 at the council’s Civic Centre. It will also be streamed live on its YouTube channel.

Storm Otto hit the Harrogate district with a vengeance this morning.

The Stray Ferret provided live coverage as tree after tree fell, causing widespread travel disruption and damaging cars. Thousands of homes also lost power.

Here’s a look back at what happened.

2.21pm Power slowly being restored

Northern Powergrid is reporting a far lower number of homes are without power across the Harrogate district this afternoon.

It says power has been restored to many in Nidderdale and areas around Ripon, though engineers are still working to reconnect several dozen homes in the area.

The National Trust said Fountains Abbey will remain closed this afternoon as it is still without power.

❗️UPDATE❗️ Friday 17 Feb 2023: Due to the high winds, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal is without power and will remain closed today.

— Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, National Trust (@fountainsabbey) February 17, 2023

Several hundred homes around Goldsborough, Spofforth and Follifoot are still cut off this afternoon, with expected reconnection times varying between 7.30pm and 1.15am.

2.14pm RHS Harlow Carr reopens

With the weather warning now lifted, conditions have improved significantly across the Harrogate district.

After a delayed opening, and then parts of the gardens remaining closed, RHS Harlow Carr confirmed it has now fully reopened.

https://twitter.com/RHSHarlowCarr/status/1626576626376138752

2.09pm Fallen trees at Ripon Rugby Club

David Uffindall has sent us photographs of three large trees that have fallen around the pitch at Ripon Rugby Club.

One in the first picture even appears to be scoring an impressive try between the posts.

The second team is due to play at the Mallorie Park ground tomorrow afternoon, against Harrogate Pythons.

The club members have already been out to begin the clear-up operation now the winds have died down.

The extent of the storm damage this morning. Big thanks to the team that is tackling the clear up operation at the moment. pic.twitter.com/IwI7bGfeiH

— Ripon Rugby Club (@RiponRugby) February 17, 2023

12.58pm: Police alerted to 20 fallen trees in two hours in Harrogate district

Harrogate police station

North Yorkshire Police has it has been “inundated” with storm-related 999 calls this morning — especially from the Harrogate district.

It said in a press release that the force control room dealt with three times the usual volume of calls between 7am and 10am.

It received 80 emergency calls and 136 non-emergency calls between between those hours today compared with 22 and 51 yesterday.

Many were notifying them of fallen trees. The release added:

“The Harrogate district was one of the worse affected areas with over 20 reports of fallen trees in two hours. Officers in Harrogate didn’t have to travel far before they found a fallen tree as one even came down in the police station car park.

“A private car was damaged, but thankfully no one was injured.”

Officers have also dealt with five incidents involving heavy good vehicles on the A1(M). Three HGVs overturned, one lost its roof and one shed its load.

An overturned vehicle on the A1

12.01pm Some attractions ready to open this afternoon

Now the weather has taken a turn for the better, tourist attractions are beginning to open their doors.

RHS Harlow Carr, which had remained closed this morning because of the high winds, says its gates will be opened to the public from 1pm, though some areas will remain closed.

⚠️ Garden opening update – Friday 17th February ⚠️

The garden will reopen at 1pm today, apart from the Woodland, Alpine House and Play Area. pic.twitter.com/tYD8sGboek

— RHS Harlow Carr (@RHSHarlowCarr) February 17, 2023

However, other attractions have said they will not be reopening just yet.

Fountains Abbey is affected by an extensive power cut across Ripon and the surrounding area, while Birchfield Farm in Nidderdale is also without power.

The latter had made the decision to stay closed today but intends to be open as usual over the weekend, assuming power has been restored.

11.28pm Another fallen tree

A tree is blocking Wood View in the Duchy area of Harrogate.

It has fallen from the garden belonging to a house that was visited by Liz Truss last summer, as part of her successful campaign to be elected as leader of the Conservative party.

11.15am Bins in the wind

With recycling collections due in some areas today, there is plenty of debris blowing around.

Expect to see rogue black recycling bins skidding across the road and blue recycling bags caught in trees and hedges when you’re out and about.

One resident has had a bit of trouble with her wheelie bin too…

https://twitter.com/G_Stockdale/status/1626536380372246533

11.10am Extensive power cuts across Harrogate district

Northern Powergrid’s live map shows extensive problems across the Harrogate district.

Much of Nidderdale is experiencing a power outage, with one area showing 170 homes are currently without power between Darley and Lofthouse, and another showing 140 have been cut off around the Hampsthwaite area.

Ripon and surrounding villages are also experiencing disruption, with 1,050 homes affected. Separate problems are affecting 410 properties around Copt Hewick and 940 homes to the north of Ripon.

Around Spofforth, Follifoot and nearby villages, there are further power cuts to 240 properties.

The estimated times for restoring power are between 7pm and 9pm, with Northern Powergrid saying it is dealing with extensive problems this morning.

Is your home or business affected by the power outage? Get in touch to let us know how you’re managing.

10.54am Power cut at Fountains Abbey

Because of a power cut in the area, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal will remain closed for now.

17 Feb 2023: Due to the high winds, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal is without power and is currently closed to the public. We're assessing whether we can open the property today. Please check back for updates.

— Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, National Trust (@fountainsabbey) February 17, 2023

The National Trust said yesterday it planned to open around noon once the high winds had subsided, but that won’t be possible until power is restored.

Northern Powergrid is dealing with an unplanned power cut to just over 1,000 properties in the area and its current estimated time for reconnection is 7pm.

10.34am Rail disruption continues

There are likely to be service disruptions on the York-Harrogate-Leeds line for some time this morning.

This video from LNER shows some tarpaulin caught in overhead power lines at Leeds station.

The route out of Leeds is currently closed and passengers are advised they can use tickets to board alternative services.

However, there are also reports of a fallen tree on the tracks between Harrogate and Knaresborough, causing disruption to the timetable.

10.26am Changes to bus services

There is disruption to bus services around the Harrogate district because of the weather.

As well as the 8 and the 3 services being unable to serve stops on parts of their routes because of fallen trees, the 1 services to Knaresborough have had changes made to their departures from Harrogate bus station.

https://twitter.com/harrogatebus/status/1626527369547612160

10.17am: Knaresborough firefighters make sign safe

Knaresborough Fire Station has posted the following on its Facebook page.

“This morning, Knaresborough Fire Crew were called out to a sign hanging perilously over a public area on the High Street due to the high winds. Crews made the structure safe

“Take care if you are travelling this morning – there are a lot of fallen trees across roads in our area.”

10.10am: The sunken Porsche 

We’ve been speaking to Zenya Dunn, seen here standing next to her partner Michael’s Porsche 911 on Granby Road in Harrogate. Look our for more on this story soon.

10am: Tree down on Ripon Road in Harrogate

The main northbound route out of Harrogate is blocked by a tree,

9.48am: Severe travel problems on Leeds Road due to tree

A fallen tree is blocking almost all of Leeds Road near M&S. The road is only passable southbound, so cars travelling northbound are having to wait for a gap in the traffic to get through. Larger vehicles like the 36 bus are having to go onto the pavement to get past.

It has fallen from a neighbouring garden right across the carriageway. Traffic is queuing in both directions and surrounding roads as people look for alternative routes.

9.41am: Delays on Leeds Road into Harrogate

Traffic has generally been lighter this week due to half-term. But there is currently very heavy traffic coming into Harrogate on Leeds Road. We have been told a tree is down near the M&S foodhall.

9.37am: Tree blocking popular Valley Gardens walking route

Tree down on the path from valley gardens to Harlow carr just over the road. Can walk round but if you are coming this way with a wheelchair or pushchair maybe consider going up Otley road #harrogate pic.twitter.com/W1ReEpDowY

— Robbie Duncan (@robbie_duncan) February 17, 2023

9.34am: Cherry tree down on the Stray

Thanks to Ann Leathley for alerting us to this fallen cherry tree on the Stray.

https://twitter.com/HarrogateAnn/status/1626512854412103680

9.31am: Tree problems on main road near Pannal

A fallen tree is blocking the lane approaching Harrogate on the A61 near Pannal, just past the Costa drive-through. The road is wide enough at that point for vehicles to pass without much difficulty.

9.26am: Tree down near Harrogate Borough Council offices

Thanks to Hayley Jayne for sending us this photo of a tree down on the junction of King’s Road and Springfield Avenue, near the council headquarters. Please let us know how the storm is affecting you by emailing contact@thestrayferret.co.uk.

9.20am: Tree crashes through roof of car in Harrogate

We have been sent a photo of a tree that has fallen into the roof of a car on Granby Road in Harrogate.

9.16am: A1 partially reopens at junction 51

#A1M in #NorthYorkshire has re-opened north between J51 #Leeming & J52 #Catterick following an overturned heavy goods vehicle.

Lane 2 & 3 (of 3) remains closed. Lane 1 is open past the scene.

Please take extra care when travelling today due to very strong winds in the area. pic.twitter.com/SQuhfyY4p7

— National Highways: Yorkshire (@HighwaysYORKS) February 17, 2023

9.11am: Leeds Road disruption cleared

A tree down on Leeds Road near the junction with Stone Rings Lane was partially blocking the road this morning but it has now been moved.

9.10am: RHS closes Harlow Carr

⚠️ Garden closed this morning – 17th Feb ⚠️

Unfortunately due to a yellow weather warning of very strong winds, the garden will be closed this morning. This is to ensure the safety of all our visitors, staff and volunteers. We will review at midday and may open this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/JBVEGiaksk

— RHS Harlow Carr (@RHSHarlowCarr) February 17, 2023

9.07am: Tree down in Burn Bridge

A tree is down on Foot Lane out the back of Burn Bridge. The large pine tree is partially blocking the road

9.01am: Tree down at Wormald Green

Thanks to a reader for notifying us of a tree down on Station Lane in Wormald Green. They said:

“Tree gone in the wind, finding it impossible to contact anyone to remove it. Harrogate refers to North Yorkshire, out of hours here refers to 101. 101 on hold.”

8.58am: Tree down on Pannal Ash Road in Harrogate

There is a fallen tree near the junction with Pannal Ash Drive. It’s not blocking the road but part of it is sticking out so cars are having to pull out to go around it. Again, would be causing a lot more problems on a school day! Looks like someone has already been out and chopped it a bit.

8.46am: Harrogate picture frame still intact despite fallen tree

Our reporter has been on the Stray to see the impact of the fallen tree on the picture frame where tourists pose for pictures and it appears to have withstood the impact of a fallen tree,

8.42am: Tree down on the Stray

8.37am: Tree down on Green Lane in Harrogate

A tree has fallen on Green Lane, close to the junction with Ashville Grove and is blocking a driveway, though the road is largely clear. Fortunately as it’s half-term so Green Lane doesn’t have the usual volume of traffic.

8.31am: Tree down on Bilton viaduct

This has been posted on the Bilton Community Group Facebook page showing a fallen tree on the bridge where Paddington 2 was filmed.

8.22am: Tree overhanging the A61 Ripon Road

Reports of a. overhanging tree on the Ripon Road between Ripley and Ripon.

8.15am: Tree down in Pinewoods

https://twitter.com/PinewoodsHgt/status/1626493951740977152

8.13am: A1 northbound closed at junction 49

The second report of an overturned HGV on the A1 this morning.

https://twitter.com/HighwaysYORKS/status/1626494665510854657

8.09am: Harrogate picture frame takes a hit

The Harrogate picture frame on the Stray, where tourists pose for photos, has taken a hit from a tree.

8.05am: Power cuts hit Harrogate — homes could be off until 7.30pm

#Powercut is affecting HG3 1 & HG5 8 postcode area.

We are expecting the supply to be restored by 7:30 pm.

Report your power cut online to be kept updated – https://t.co/wpHlPZBeOy pic.twitter.com/nGkYa75sgn

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) February 17, 2023

8.02am: Bus services in Jennyfields affected

https://twitter.com/harrogatebus/status/1626491876265140225

7.49am: Train lines between Harrogate and Knaresborough down

https://twitter.com/northernassist/status/1626488179871166466

7.41am: Tree down in Knaresborough

Reports of a tree down on the road on the hill down to Mother Shipton’s pub in Knaresborough coming down from Calcutt, cleared much as we could

7.33am: Lorry overturned on AI

National Highways says a lorry has overturned just south of Leeming Bar at junction 51. It isn’t clear if it is due to the wind but it is adding to the morning problems.

Lane 1 (of 3) is closed on the #A1(M) in #NorthYorkshire southbound within J51 #Leeming due to an overturned heavy goods vehicle. @NYorksPolice are in attendance.

Please take care on approach, thank you for your patience. pic.twitter.com/BFAvoZ1cEV

— National Highways: Yorkshire (@HighwaysYORKS) February 17, 2023

7.15am: Power cut in Ripon

About 1,300 homes in the HG4 postcode area have suffered power cuts as Storm Otto hits the area.

Northern Powergrid has said it doesn’t expect services to be restored until 7pm tonight.

HG4 covers Ripon and surrounding villages.

#Powercut is affecting HG4 postcode area.

We are expecting the supply to be restored by 7 pm.

Report your power cut online to be kept updated – https://t.co/SDLE6r1xel pic.twitter.com/BeOKP7dqc8

— Northern Powergrid (@Northpowergrid) February 17, 2023

A yellow weather warning is in place for the Harrogate district until 2pm today.

According to the Met Office, winds are due to peak at about 9am at around 65mph.

A scheme to build 1,300 homes on historic army barracks in Ripon looks set to be approved next week.

Harrogate Borough Council officers have recommended its planning committee gives the scheme the go-ahead when it meets on Thursday.

If councillors vote to accept the recommendation, it will see Ripon’s population increase by almost 20%, with an estimated 3,000 people expected to occupy the new homes.

Building work is likely to continue until 2035 and 30% of homes would be deemed ‘affordable’.

The 85 hectare-scheme would also include a new primary school and sports pitches as well as shops, restaurants and offices that could support up to 678 jobs.

However, there are concern about the impact on health services, the road network and the loss of key sites of military history.

The report to councillors concludes:

“The proposed development will deliver a range of significant public benefits that demonstrate compliance with adopted policies and the aspirations of the Ripon Neighbourhood Plan.”

Payments for health and schools

Applicants the Secretary of State for Defence and Homes England, a non-departmental public body that funds new affordable housing in England, which are behind the proposal, have agreed to pay a minimum of £907,267 for health care facilities as part of a section 106 agreement developers pay to fund infrastructure costs associated with their schemes.

The agreement would also see the developers pay £2.7 million for primary school education and £1.9 million for secondary school education.

A two-form primary school with a playing field would be built on the site.

A computer generated image of the proposed Ripon barracks site.

Development would take place on the sites of Claro Barracks, Laver Banks and Deverell Barracks, which played key roles in the First and Second World Wars.

The report acknowledges “strong concerns” over the demolition of Deverell Barracks, which according to the non-departmental public body Historic England contains buildings that make it ‘one of the best surviving WWII temporary standardised prefabricated sites’.

The report says the developers would ‘explore retention of these structures’ but adds there are ‘significant issues with their re-use’ due to the presence of asbestos and concludes there is no ‘certainty of retention’.

Part of the current site

The significance of two military bridges on Laver Banks became apparent recently following research by Ripon Military Heritage Group and the report says the applicants have “confirmed a commitment to keep on working together” with the group.

The report says the highways authority, North Yorkshire County Council, “considers there is no defensible reason to refuse the application on highway or transportation grounds” in the wake of proposed highways changes.

Read more:

• NHS objects to planned 1,300-home development on Ripon barracks
• Calls to assess impact of Ripon Cathedral’s £6m expansion on cafes and shops

The Unsung Hero Award is sponsored by The Big Bamboo Agency.

The Harrogate marketing and PR firm provides creative solutions to its clients.

The company’s expertise is delivering specialist strategies, brand development and website and social media management.

The Unsung Hero Award is designed to shine a light on individuals who are not only integral to the day to day, but are prepared to go the extra mile without prompt or payment.

The Finalists

Kayti Mewis, Mumbler

Kayti joined Mumbler as volunteer after moving to Harrogate and is now the Content Creator and Social Media Manager.

Sally Haslewood, Founder of Mumbler, said,

“Kayti immediately got stuck in and wrote countless blogs for me, all focused on her life as a young mum in Harrogate.

“Kayti is a joy to work with. To be honest, I don’t know what I would have done if she’d turned down the role, as she had fast become my right-hand woman”.

Kayti has added value across the whole company, including working in the sales sector, creating inspiration for parents during lockdown and is even due to co-present the Harrogate Mumbler Awards in November.

Kayti Mewis said:

“I’m absolutely delighted to be nominated for this award – let alone shortlisted!  Harrogate Mumbler is such an important resource for parents and carers in the area.

“Harrogate is a great place for families to live, and having a job which involves shouting about how great it is, is brilliant!”

Chris Ashby, Harrogate BID

In 2021, Harrogate BID recruited Chris Ashby to deep cleaning Harrogate town centre.

As the town’s Street Ranger Chris Ashby has delivered staggering results from his work and faced situations no one wants to face.

He has removed 126 graffiti tags, improved 38 building façades, disposed of 57 used needles and painted numerous bits of street furniture.

His actions in July last year hit the headlines when he rescued a person he found hanging from a tree in the town centre.

Matthew Chapman, Manager of Harrogate BID, said:

“We nominated Chris as, not only is the work he delivers top notch and making an evidential difference on a daily basis, but he is also somewhat of a Harrogate Ambassador. Chris reacts to the day job instantly, is offering regular and positive good mornings, hellos, helping with directions, alongside supporting some of the most vulnerable.

“As a sole person covering a huge area, Chris’s work has now become the norm. We have nominated him because, if there wasn’t a Chris, Harrogate would be very different place”.

Jago Wallace, Himalayan Garden

Jago Wallace’s “quiet determination” and passion for gardening has found him shortlisted for Unsung Hero.

Jago, a gardener at Ripon’s Himalayan Garden, began his horticulture career aged 17 and, six years later, has full responsibility for the gardens Plant Nursery. He also oversees the gardens National Collection of Rhododendrons. His duties involve knowledgeable plant care, training others, writing reports, keeping plant records and hosting talks and tours of the collection.

Jago always acts as a media spokesperson for the garden and is continuously developing new ideas for activities and features within the business.

Jago’s colleagues describe him as “a humble, gentle soul, who always surprises with his humour, willingness and knowledge”.

Jago said:

“It’s lovely to have been picked as a finalist for this award. Working at such an amazing garden with rare and incredibly interesting plants, the conservation we do helps these plants that are in danger in the wild from habitat loss, is hugely rewarding work.

“Being able to do this where I grew up and live makes what I do feel even more magical.”

The Stray Ferret Business Award event sponsor is Prosperis. To find more and to purchase tickets for the big night, click here.

This story is sponsored by Bright Light Musical Productions.

A new local musical theatre group is set to bring the hit Netflix musical Tick, Tick… BOOM! to Ripon, with an exciting two-week run starting this Thursday.

Tick, Tick… BOOM! will be the debut show for Bright Light Musical Productions, which is made up of a young and passionate cast and creative team from across the Harrogate district.

The troupe has spent the last nine months preparing for the show at the newly-refurbished Ripon Arts Hub from Thursday, February 16 until Saturday, February 25.

Dan Crawfurd-Porter, who is producing the show, told the Stray Ferret:

“Tick, Tick… BOOM! is a must-see for any theatre fan.

“Inspired by a love of musical theatre legend, Jonathan Larson, this has been the ultimate passion project and it feels fitting to channel that passion into telling the story of Larson through his own words and music.

“As Jon asks: ‘What does it take, to wake up a generation?’, the answer, we hope, is this show!”

Bright Light Musical Productions’ show boasts an intimate cast, a four-piece rock band and a stunning 90s-inspired set.

Director William Thirlaway, musical director Matthew Peter Clare, and choreographer Freya McIntosh have all driven the show creatively.

The two-week run for this musical spectacular is to not be missed. The clock is ticking, so get your tickets now by clicking or tapping here. Tickets are just £15.

Tick, Tick… BOOM! is the story of Jonathan Larson

The musical Tick, Tick… BOOM! is based on the true story of promising theatre composer Jonathan Larson before he went onto create the hugely successful Rent.

About to turn 30 and still waiting tables for a living, Jon is desperate to create something truly great before his time runs out.

The pressure grows as Jon’s girlfriend, Susan, announces that she wants to get married and move out of the city and his best friend, Michael, quits acting and finds financial success on a different career path.

This is the debut show from Bright Light Musical Productions.

As the time ticks by, Jon debates whether he should throw in the towel.

Tick, Tick… BOOM! was a hit on Netflix and received acclaim for Andrew Garfield’s performance as Jonathan Larson and Lin Manuel Miranda’s direction.

Now, just over a year since the film’s release on Netflix in November 2021, Bright Light Musical Productions is bringing the musical to Ripon.

The show starts this Thursday and runs with matinee and evening performances until Saturday, February 25.

Click or tap here to get your tickets for Tick, Tick… BOOM! at Ripon Arts Hub now. 

Ripon has never sat comfortably within the Harrogate district.

An ill feeling has lingered in the cathedral city since the last local government reorganisation in 1974 when several smaller councils were brought together to create Harrogate Borough Council.

Whether it’s fair or not, there has been a perception in some quarters of the city that the council has always looked on Harrogate as the crown jewel to Ripon’s detriment.

This will all change on April 1, when Harrogate Borough Council will be abolished and Ripon will fall under the control of a new unitary authority, North Yorkshire Council.

Councillors are optimistic the city can reap the rewards.

Andrew Williams is the leader of Ripon City Council and an independent councillor on North Yorkshire County Council for Ripon Minster and Moorside.

The 53-year-old has lived in Ripon all his life and said he first became conscious of the sentiment towards Harrogate Borough Council as a teenager.

Cllr Andrew Williams

He claims “Harrogate council has been dominated by Harrogate” and that Ripon has “suffered badly” under the current system.

He added:

“What the new council arrangement will do is ensure there will be no unfair advantage to anybody.

“Across North Yorkshire, there are a lot of places like Ripon — Malton, Thirsk, Easingwold, Skipton and Richmond — that have a similar sized population to Ripon with not dissimilar issues. The focus on resolving those will be given a much higher priority.”

A central pledge in the case for reorganisation, called “double devolution”, was that town and parish councils could be handed more powers if they can make a successful business case.

Cllr Williams believes it will provide a golden opportunity for Ripon City Council to take control of assets that Harrogate Borough Council assumed when it was formed almost 50 years ago, such as the city’s neoclassical town hall.

He said:

“We’re hopeful of being selected as a pilot area for double devolution. We believe the new arrangements will provide a better opportunity for Ripon to have a greater control over its destiny.”

Taking back control

Cllr Barbara Brodigan is the Liberal Democrat councillor for Ripon Ure Bank & Spa and was elected in May 2022.

The former teacher has lived in Ripon for five years but before than lived in Knaresborough for 30 years. She’s excited about the potential benefits of double devolution.

Cllr Brodigan, pictured above, said:

“Ripon has long felt neglected but Ripon City Council could now have more control over our assets. I’m in favour of that. Ripon should be making decisions about Ripon.”

Read more:

• Harrogate council spends £45,000 on outside help for failed Levelling Up bid
• Harrogate council pays out almost £20,000 in compensation to tenants due to damp

Harrogate Borough Council would point to its multi-million-pound investment into the Jack Laugher Leisure and Wellness Centre as an example of its commitment to the residents of Ripon.

But Cllr Brodigan described the project as an “ongoing farce” due to the location the council decided to build it and spiralling costs.

Other borough council projects, such as work on a masterplan for the regeneration of the city centre have been put on hold, which Cllr Brodigan said is holding Ripon back.

She added:

“People are waiting for the Ripon Renewal masterplan to be implemented so nothing can move forward. It’s sitting on a shelf in Harrogate. That would make a huge difference to city centre.

“When you come to Ripon you can’t see anything because of all the cars. It’s not attractive at all. Tourism is our major income stream yet we have a car park in the centre.”

At a Harrogate Borough Council meeting in 2021, Conservative deputy leader Graham Swift described the grievances of Ripon Independent councillor Pauline McHardy as like listening to the Scottish National Party.

Whether or not residents and councillors have justifiable frustrations at the relationship with Harrogate Borough Council, there is excitement within the city about the opportunities that local government reorganisation could bring.

A village school near Ripon has said it is “disappointed” by its latest Ofsted report and vowed to make improvements.

North Stainley Church of England Primary School has been rated ‘requires improvement’ by the schools inspector, a downgrade from its previous ‘good’ rating in 2019.

In the latest report, inspectors said pupils were “happy and safe” at the school and felt proud to attend. They said:

“Leaders have high expectations of pupils’ behaviour, and these expectations are met. Pupils behave well in and around school.

“They are mindful to keep themselves safe and to behave well when they move between the school building and the village hall at various times in the day.

“At break and lunchtime, pupils of all ages play happily together. Pupils say that there is no bullying, and they are confident that adults would deal with it if it did happen.

“Pupils have a sense of personal and communal responsibility. They enjoy having leadership roles, such as school councillors and sports or worship ambassadors. They appreciate that these roles help to prepare them for later life.”

Pupils’ behaviour and their personal development were both rated ‘good’, along with the school’s early years provision.

However, the report, published last week, said the overall quality of education required improvement, along with its leadership.

After a visit at the end of November, inspectors said:

“Leaders have developed the curriculum in recent years, but their ambitions are not fully realised. The quality of education pupils experience is variable.

“Leaders have identified the important topics that they want pupils to learn. However, they have not consistently broken this knowledge down into small steps of learning in all subjects. This makes it difficult for pupils to remember what teachers want them to learn.

“In mathematics, the small steps that pupils need to take to make progress are clear. In other subjects, such as geography and science, the smaller steps have not been identified. This means that the curriculum is not taught consistently well.”

The report added:

“Governors are committed to their own and the school’s improvement. They receive training and understand their roles well. They are closely involved in the life of the school.

“Governors are well informed and provide leaders with the support and challenge they need.”

The school said its staff and governors have been working to make improvements and would continue to do so.

Headteacher Louise Wallen said:

“We have been disappointed by the ‘requires improvement’ category that Ofsted have placed our school under.

“We are a lovely small rural school where our staff and governors have worked hard to make many improvements in recent years. Comments made during the inspection feedback assured us that the required improvements can be put in place and return the school to a much stronger position quickly.

“We thank our parents who have given us support throughout this process safe in the knowledge that their children continue to flourish in their learning and in life, here at North Stainley School.”

Read more:

• Harrogate’s Rossett School still ‘requires improvement’, says Ofsted
• Plans submitted for South Stainley solar farm that could power 3,000 homes

The Skell Valley Project is embarking on a new oral history venture featuring the experiences of people living and working in the Skell Valley.

The four-year project, led by the National Trust and Nidderdale AONB, aims to conserve, enhance and celebrate the 12 miles of the River Skell from the moorlands of Dallowgill into Ripon.

A spokesperson for the project said:

“We are looking for people to share their stories of everyday life here, whether it’s about farming or working in the valley, growing up and childhood days, memories of past generations, local characters, and some of the amazing wartime history too.

“Oral history is exactly that – talking about the past. Participants will have an informal chat with a couple of volunteers who will record stories in the comfort of their home or another convenient place.”

The £2.5 million Skell Valley Project is using funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to connect local communities with unexplored heritage on their doorstep.

The oral history is just one part of the overall project, which began in 2019 and is set to run for five years.

The spokesperson added:

“At present, we don’t have a great deal of archive information about twentieth century life in the Skell Valley which runs along the 12-mile length of the Skell River, from Dallowgill, through busy rural villages and into the city of Ripon.

“We hope that by speaking to members of the community about their lives here, we’ll be able to make sure that the rich local history of the last century is documented and can brought to life for future generations.

“We’re also looking for volunteers to help carry out oral history interviews to collect these new stories and will provide full training for anyone who is interested in taking part. If you have a passion for history and would like to help, then we’d love to hear from you.”

Anybody wanting to share their story or interested in volunteering with the project, is asked to contact Karen Collins, Skell Valley Heritage Officer, on 07816 204585, karen.collins@nationaltrust.org.uk.

The Stray Ferret Business Awards 2023 will be an evening of celebration for the finalists and the winners – and everyone who attends also has the chance to win big.

We’re giving away a one-night stay in the Presidential Suite at Grantley Hall, plus dinner in either Fletchers or Eighty Eight.

A ticket to the awards evening means automatic entry into the prize draw and this fabulous night at Grantley.

So what level of luxury awaits the lucky winner? Take a look at the image below…

The Presidential Suite at Grantley Hall.

After a night in this suite, the winner will get a taste of what it feels like to be Joe Biden. Maybe they’ll even see him in the hallway.

Speaking of which, don’t worry about entering the hotel with the rest of the punters, because the Presidential Suite has its own private hallway, accessed from the rooftop atrium.

The four-piece bathroom, boasting a double vanity and a walk-in shower, is the perfect excuse to have that 45 minute shower you’ve been dreaming of, but the water bill said otherwise…

The Presidential Suite caters to your every need. All you will need to worry about is finding the right dinner suit and pyjama set… if all else fails, just borrow your parents’.

The winners of this prize will only have one thing to squabble about on the day: which restaurant to have dinner in?

That is an undeniably hard decision, but your tastebuds and tummies will be very satisfied regardless.

Fletchers Restaurant delivers sophisticated all-day dining. The menu is a combination of British and European cuisine, offering a range of dishes, including confit duck & foie royal terrine, fillet of beef Wellington and a whole grilled lobster – a nice change from spaghetti bolognese.

Beef Wellington is served at Fletchers.

There’s no need to fly to Japan when you can visit Eighty Eight. The restaurant brings a taste of Far Eastern flavours to Yorkshire produce and immerses guests into an ornamental Japanese garden within the restaurant.

Eighty Eight’s menu includes grilled diver scallops, robata grilled monkfish, five spiced duck breast and a toffee apple & miso tart.

Eighty Eight brings Eastern flavours to the West

Don’t pass up the opportunity to win this golden ticket prize. Who knows, the winner may even check out feeling powerful enough to run the country.

For more information on the awards and to purchase tickets, click here.

Terms and conditions:

Valid for two guests sharing. Subject to availability. Valid Sunday – Thursday and excludes bank holidays. Cannot be redeemed against Christmas and New Year packages. The voucher includes £100 towards the final food bill in the chosen restaurant, pre-booking must be made to redeem voucher. Once initially redeemed any outstanding amounts cannot be transferred to a future visit.

February half-term is just around the corner, meaning many parents will be racking their brains for ideas to keep their children entertained for a week. Luckily, there are many options around the Harrogate district to help – keeping both your children and your bank balance happy.

Whether you fancy some fresh air, culture or just harmless fun, we’ve pulled together seven ideas for all the family.

Birchfield Farm: Spring on The Farm

A rural and inexpensive option, Birchfield Farm in Summerbridge will be open 7 days a week for the duration of the school holidays.

Spring on The Farm invites visitors to see pregnant sheep settling in the barns before birth. Some people may even be lucky enough to witness a baby lamb being born. Visitors are also able to bottle feed the lambs from 11am-2pm on a first come, first served basis.

Children can also enjoy seeing piglets, goats, ponies, donkeys and even pet the guinea pigs.

If that isn’t enough, children can also burn off steam on the bouncy castle, play in the mini construction play area and in the outdoor play area. Go-Karts, pedal tractors, swings and a giant outdoor sandpit can also be enjoyed.

The farm also has a café serving hot and cold food & drinks.

All activities are included in the entrance prices – with adults & children’s prices set at £5.95 and under 2s going free.

No booking is required. No dogs are permitted, except for guide dogs or service dogs.

For more information, click here.

Harrogate Indoor Funfair

If your child requires a little (or a lot) more tiring out over half-term, Harrogate Indoor Funfair could be a great option for you. The Funfair will run from 11-19 February, with a quieter session being held on 12 February from 10am-1pm.

With rides, traditional funfair snacks and inflatables, Harrogate Indoor Funfair offers all the joy of a regular funfair in an indoor, climate-controlled space. A nice way to shelter from the inevitable half-term rain.

Harrogate Indoor Funfair will take place at Yorkshire Event Centre, at the Yorkshire Showground. There is free parking at Yorkshire Events Centre and priority parking for Blue Badge holders.

The number 7 and X70 buses stop at Sainsbury’s on Wetherby Road, just one mile from the Funfair entrance.

Prices range from: £12.99 online and £14.99 on the door. Babies in arms go free.

Keep an eye on their website for the upcoming ride list.

Read More:

• New Masham restaurant wins Michelin Guide accolade
• Harrogate mum launches group for neurodiverse children and their parents

Half-Term Kids Yoga Workshop

If your child has ever asked what you get up to whilst they’re at school, this half-term activity may give them an idea.

Harrogate Yoga and Pilates studio, Ebru Evrim, is hosting a one and a half hour kids yoga workshop this half-term.

The workshop will be brought to life with specially designed music linked to the theme and stories behind the session and lead the children to ultimate relaxation.

The workshop is set to improve concentration and focus, as well as aiding the children to deal with their emotions and self-regulation of moods.

Who knows, your child may even go to bed without any protest that night.

The workshop host, Jenny White, holds a DBS, is fully insured and is also paediatric first aid trained.

Children can expect a day of yoga, arts, dance, mindfulness and, most importantly, lots of fun.

The session is suitable for ages 6-11 years and will cost £12.

Find more information here.

 Ebru Evrim is hosting a kids yoga session.

The Little Gym Holiday Camps: School’s Out, Fun’s In

For those children that may require a little more bounce in their half-term break, The Little Gym Holiday Camps may be a good solution.

Running from Monday 13-Sunday 19 February, The Little Gym in Harrogate is offering gymnastics camps that run from 8.30am-5pm – including a Breakfast Club to help those parents working over the holiday. The camps vary from as little as 3 hours to 7.5 hours a day and children will learn new skills that they can practise and perfect throughout the session.

The sessions vary each week to stimulate children both physically and mentally, all under the care of qualified and dedicated instructors.

The camps, classes and session suitability ranges from 3-8 & 5-12 years.

Half-day prices begin at £35.

Click here for more information.

Ripon Ghost Walk: Children’s Half-Term Special

The Ripon Ghost Walk half-term special is a spookily inexpensive option to feed your child’s fear-factor!

The half-term special Ghost Walk promises the discovery of ancient burial sites, bone finds and maybe even the presence of deceased Ripon residents.

The half-term Ghost Walk begins much earlier than usual at 16.15pm in the Market Square, meaning it will be dark enough for the ghosts to come out, but early enough to ensure your children are still in bed on time.

Prices start from £4 for under 16s and £6 for adults.

Find more information on their website.

Beyond Imagination Emporium Princess Academy: Valentine’s Special

Calling all Prince and Princesses! Beyond Imagination Emporium in Harrogate is re-opening their Princess Academy this February half-term with a Valentine’s special.

The one-hour Princess Academy sessions take place on select dates during school holidays.

There are two Princess Academy sessions taking place on Saturday 11 February. At 11am, children will be joined by Frozen’s Anna and Kristoff, while the 2pm session will be hosted by Beauty and The Beast’s Prince Adam & Belle.

Children spend time learning royal dances, princess etiquette, arts and crafts and fairy-tale play. The session includes sweet treats for the children, as well as refreshments for the parents.

Children can also make a Valentine’s Day card to give to someone special to them.

The sessions cost £13.95 and are ideal for ages 3 – 9 years.

Find more information here.

Children can meet their favourite Prince and Princesses.

Fountains Abbey: Mindful Family Crafts

If you’re looking to join your children in their half-term fun, Fountains Abbey in Ripon is hosting a Mindful Family Crafts event.

The crafting will take place in Swanley Grange, located in the grounds of the Abbey. The event will be running from 11 – 19 February (excluding 12 February), starting at 11am.

Children and parents can get their creative juices flowing using sustainable and natural materials.

The event is suitable for all ages and abilities. Those that may prefer to craft quietly can attend the “crafting quiet hour” from 2pm – 3pm.

The event itself is free, but regular admissions prices apply. Admission for one adult and three children starts from £27.

Click here for more information.